Good times for civil engineers

Job projections into the next decade indicate that civil engineers will be in big demand. These projections are outlined in the Occupational Outlook Handbook published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Jobs outlook
The Handbook states: “Employment of civil engineers is projected to grow 20% [into] 2022, faster than the average for all occupations. As infrastructure continues to age, civil engineers will be needed to manage projects to rebuild bridges, repair roads, and upgrade levees and dams.”

Water, water, water
The Handbook specifically cites water issues involving civil engineering expertise: “… a growing population means that new water systems will be required while the aging, existing water systems must be maintained to reduce or eliminate leaks of drinkable water. In addition, more waste treatment plants will be needed to help clean the nation’s waterways. Civil engineers play a key part in all of this work.”

Energy
The Handbook continues: “The work of civil engineers will be needed for renewable energy projects. Civil engineers prepare the permit documents for these types of projects, verifying that the project will comply with federal, state, and local requirements. With regard to solar energy, these engineers conduct structural analyses for large-scale photovoltaic projects. They also evaluate the ability of solar array support structures and buildings to tolerate stresses from wind, seismic activity, and other sources. For large-scale wind projects, civil engineers often prepare roadbeds to handle large trucks that haul in the turbines. In addition, they prepare the sites on shore or offshore to make sure that the foundations for the turbines will safely keep the turbines upright in expected environmental conditions.

“Although states continue to face financial challenges and may have difficulty funding all the projects that need attention, some of the projects that have been delayed will ultimately have to be completed in order to build and maintain critical infrastructure.”

Job prospects
The Handbook concluded: “Although a bachelor’s degree is the typical requirement for entry, applicants who gain experience by participating in a co-op program while in college will have the best opportunities.”